If electrical or avionics fire persists, which action should be taken?

• A. EMERGENCY ELECTRICAL CUTOFF
• B. Land/DITCH IMMEDIATELY
• C. Affected Equipment Off
• D. Heat/Cool Switches Off

Answer: (A)

Cutting the power to the electrical system as quickly as possible is the first priority when an electrical or avionics fire persists. The emergency electrical cutoff is designed to immediately remove the source of energy feeding the fire, which helps prevent further ignition, reduces the risk of short circuits or arcing, and protects remaining avionics and controls. This action buys time and lowers the threat level, making subsequent steps like a controlled landing safer.

Shutting off only the affected equipment doesn’t guarantee the fire is extinguished or contained, because other energized circuits can still feed the fire. Turning off heat or cooling controls addresses environmental conditions but does not stop the electrical source fueling the fire. Landing or ditching immediately, while potentially necessary later, isn’t the safest or most effective first move if you can quickly isolate the fire by removing electrical power.